An engineered-to-order (ETO) approach to integrating complex equipment into crushing and screening stages of comminution is strongly recommended by Sandvik Rock Processing.

According to Sandvik Rock Processing VP: sales area Africa Tarynn Yatras the ETO model enables the company to design plant configurations around the specific operating conditions and requirements of each mine, rather than an “off-the-shelf” solution.

Yatras notes that mines are increasingly recognising the value of ETO solutions which allow custom-designed systems for crushing plants that are developed to meet the specific operational, material and site requirements of individual customers – particularly for complex mining and large quarry applications.

“Our ETO offering allows us to deeply integrate our engineering expertise using site-specific knowledge,” she explains. In a typical installation, equipment such as jaw crushers, cone crushers, screens and rock breakers can be seamlessly combined from the company’s product range.

Site-specific challenges can also be addressed early in the design phase. Factors such as ore abrasiveness, required throughput, plant layout and operational constraints all influence equipment selection and circuit configuration.

“Particular challenges such as space restrictions or unusual elevations – common in brownfield operations - may also need to be accommodated,” she says. “Complex multi-stage crushing arrangements may be required, with careful fine-tuning of flowsheets.”

Digital simulation tools are used to help identify the optimal configuration. By modelling different plant layouts, engineers can test alternative flowsheets and predict circuit performance before implementation. Yatras emphasises, however, that Sandvik Rock Processing is not an engineering, procurement, and construction management house and the company remains focused on delivering crushing and screening product solutions.

“Ultimately, the goal is to ensure the plant delivers consistent performance throughout its lifecycle, in line with design expectations,” Yatras says. “While simulations and design expertise provide a strong starting point, ongoing monitoring and optimisation remain essential.”